The Albert Lea boys’ team got what head coach Elia Romano described as a “reality check” Tuesday in Winona against the Winhawks in a 5-0 loss.

The Tigers (1-2) were overwhelmed by Winona’s physicality and attack on offense while being hampered by a poor attack of their own.

The Winhawks found goals in bunches, scoring three goals in the first half that came during a 16-minute span. Winona scored its first goal with 17 minutes left in the first half, again seven minutes later and once more with a minute to play in the half. The Winhawks added two more goals in the second half that came three minutes apart, the first in the 28th minute and the second at the 31st minute.

Three of the five goals came off set pieces, an area the Tigers have struggled with early on this season. Albert Lea has given up five goals now in three games on set pieces alone.

“It’s disappointing because we didn’t show the intent to get marked quickly … those are where games are won and lost,” Romano said.

The game had several cards given out to each side, but Winona proved to be the more physical team and won the majority of 50-50 balls on the evening.

The Winhawks generated 24 shots in the game, compared to 12 for the Tigers, but most of Winona’s chances were legitimate scoring opportunities and Albert Lea’s weren’t.

The Tigers will have a chance to regroup before they open play in their home tournament Saturday. Albert Lea will host Winona Cotter, Caledonia and Andover.